Spy shots of the 2021 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.

BMW is preparing a redesign of the 2 Series Active Tourer, a compact minivan that has never been sold in the United States.

The 2 Series AT was BMW's first front-wheel-drive model, introduced in 2014; given BMW's traditional production cycle, this redesigned model should arrive in late 2020 or early next year. And we don't expect it to make it to the U.S. either.

The updated 2 Series AT is similar in size to the current model, but will apparently feature a more refined design. The wheelbase should also be slightly longer, allowing for more interior space. The design has clearly evolved, with some notable changes such as moving the side mirrors from the base of the A-pillar to the doors and a larger grille.

The platform is to utilize the front-wheel-drive FAAR platform developed by the BMW Group, which debuted on the redesigned 1 Series hatchback last May. The platform will reduce vehicle weight and improve compatibility with electric powertrains, including battery-electric variants. In the U.S., the platform will first appear in the 2 Series Gran Coupe compact sedan in 2020.

It is still unclear what powertrains will be available for the updated 2 Series AT, but it will likely be a series of inline three-cylinder and inline four-cylinder turbo engines. A plug-in hybrid option should also be available, and an electric vehicle may eventually appear. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive will be available.

The current 2 Series AT can also be ordered as a stretched 2 Series Gran Tourer with three rows of seats. As buyers with large families increasingly choose SUVs over minivans, a repeat of this model is not expected.